As a Director General in Advertising and Marketing within the Department of National Defence, you lead strategic communications initiatives that shape how Canada's defence and military messages reach diverse audiences. You are responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive advertising and marketing campaigns that support DND's strategic objectives, public engagement, and recruitment efforts. Your role involves directing a team of communications professionals, managing substantial budgets, and collaborating with senior leadership across the department and partner organizations.
In this executive position, you set the direction for advertising strategies, oversee creative development, manage media planning and purchasing, and ensure all campaigns align with Government of Canada communications standards and DND priorities. You make decisions on campaign messaging, target audiences, and communication channels while maintaining compliance with Treasury Board policies and Treasury Board Communications guidance. Your work directly influences public perception and understanding of Canada's defence initiatives.
You operate in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you must balance multiple competing priorities, respond to emerging communications needs, and adapt strategies based on current events and public sentiment. This role offers the opportunity to have meaningful impact on national defence communications and to lead a talented team of creative and strategic communications professionals.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver advertising and marketing products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Successful candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, business, public relations, journalism, or a related field. Many Director Generals in this role pursue additional education such as a master's degree in communications, business administration (MBA), marketing, or public administration.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include credentials from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS), the American Advertising Federation (AAF), or the Marketing Association of Canada. These certifications demonstrate commitment to professional standards and ongoing development in the field.
Throughout your career leading to this role, you will participate in government-specific professional development including executive leadership training, Treasury Board communications policy workshops, Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) training, and security clearance requirements. DND also supports ongoing learning in strategic communications, digital marketing, analytics, and public engagement methods. Many Director Generals participate in executive coaching and leadership development programs to enhance their strategic and people management capabilities.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to reach the Director General level in Advertising and Marketing within the Public Service. Most candidates progress through competitive staffing processes after building experience at lower classification levels (such as Marketing Officer, Senior Marketing Officer, or Manager positions).
You may enter the Public Service through public competitions for junior to mid-level positions in communications or marketing, where you can develop your career over time. Some candidates transition laterally from other departments or agencies where they have built relevant experience in communications, marketing, or strategic planning. Others enter through specialized recruitment programs that attract external talent with significant private-sector experience.
Competitions for Director General positions are typically closed competitions open to current Public Service employees who have demonstrated the required experience and competencies. Successful candidates typically have 10-15+ years of progressive experience in communications, marketing, or related fields, with at least 5+ years in senior management roles. Some candidates may be recruited externally through open competitions when the Public Service seeks new perspectives and specialized expertise. All candidates must obtain a security clearance appropriate to the role and be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and executive nature of the responsibilities. However, the Public Service is increasingly flexible in how work is structured.
Remote and hybrid work options may be available depending on operational requirements and departmental policies. Many Director Generals in communications roles can perform a portion of their duties from home, particularly when focusing on strategic planning, report writing, and virtual meetings. However, this role often requires regular presence at the DND headquarters to maintain close collaboration with senior leadership, attend executive meetings, and provide in-person direction to teams.
Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at the Director General level are uncommon due to the continuous, strategic nature of executive responsibilities. However, the Public Service does accommodate flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, and adjusted hours where possible. If you are interested in flexible work arrangements, these would be discussed and negotiated with your manager and department based on operational needs and business requirements. Parental leave, personal leave, and other legislated leave options are available to all Public Service employees.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
